Sarah and Craig's Volunteering Experience at CEP School

We came to work at Otra Cosa Network as a couple who wanted an opportunity to share our skills and knowledge with those who need it most. We felt that working at the CEP school would allow us the chance to share Craig’s skills in carpentry and sport plus Sarah’s skills as a Speech Therapist working with Children.

Since volunteering for one month we have felt we have achieved a lot for the school but we have also learnt a lot personally. Through money donated by our families Craig has constructed a roof for the school and he has also built a roof for the toilet and help pave a footpath. He has used his skills in sport and developed a PE program for the students. This has provided the children with an opportunity to develop skills in other types of sports such as rugby and basketball.

Sarah has assisted in a class of 42 five year olds, they have kept her busy doing tasks such as marking homework, helping with activities and providing support to those children who need extra attention and help. It has been rewarding building a relationship with the children and her very patient teacher.

Volunteering has also had its share of challenges. Communicating with our limited Spanish has made our job difficult at times, particularly for Sarah whose skills as a Speech Therapist rely on her to communicate. She wishes she could do more for those children who are struggling at school.

We feel we have learnt a lot personally whilst volunteering. We have learnt that your volunteer experience is a result of your own initiative and willingness to make a difference. Sometimes you have to push hard for what you want to achieve. For example Craig identified the need for a PE program and helped to make this happen by discussing it with the teachers and explaining the benefits. At the same time we have also learnt to be realistic in your expectations and what you can achieve, particularly since we only had one month! Progress is often slower particularly on Peruvian time.

Our experience in volunteering has also brought us the pleasure of making new friends, experiencing life in another country and learning new skills such as surfing and learning Spanish.

We feel this past month has given us a taste of volunteer work, and we are hungry for more! It has been a wonderful experience both rewarding and challenging and we hope to do some more volunteer work in the future!